Shave & A Haircut: More Than Two Bits

The folliclely focused fields are experiencing a renaissance, not just in the rise of boutique salons and barber shops that double as bars but also in the number of people learning the profession. Cosmetology and barber schools is the No. 1 fastest growing industry for 2011, according to AnythingResearch.com. The schools train both stylists and potential entrepreneurs who may someday open their own salons.

Most states require licensing for stylists, so the schools indicate a required step before entering the field. Trade schools thrived during the economic slump, and according to IBISWorld, professional skills and performance training has potential to grow 5.3 percent every year until 2016. Educating future coiffeurs is a trade itself, with an exceptional year-over-year growth rate of 29 percent, according to data from AnythingResearch.com.

I wouldn’t know. I haven’t been to a barber in years. My wife does a fine job on mine and the boy’s hair.